South American qualifying

Concern for Vidal, Costa on track

Created on 2016-11-11 at 09:50 AM
by Redaktion

Arturo Vidal sustained a thigh injury in Chile's World Cup qualifier against Colombia. The Bayern pro had to be replaced in the closing stages of the 0-0 draw in Barranquilla on Thursday evening local time. "I don't know what it is," Vidal said after the final whistle. The 29-year-old hopes he can feature in his country's match away to Uruguay on Tuesday.

"It was a golden point. It was extraordinary because it's very hard to play in these conditions," Vidal commented on the draw in Colombia, with temperatures soaring at 36 degrees and 70 percent humidity. On top of that, a blackout caused the air conditioning in the Chile dressing room to fail during half-time.

The result means Chile have 17 points in South American qualifying, lying fifth behind Ecuador who are equal on points. The top four qualify directly for the World Cup in Russia, the side in fifth place can seal a spot via the play-offs.

Costa on as a sub

Brazil are likely to feature in the World Cup finals after Thursday's 3-0 victory over Argentina, as the five-time world champions top the table on 24 points ahead of Uruguay on 23 and Colombia on 18. The Seleção dominated proceedings in Belo Horizonte, where Coutinho, Neymar and Paulinho scored the goals. Douglas Costa came on with five minutes to go.